Hurricanes sign new All Blacks loose forward
New All Black forward Semisi Ta'eiloa has signed a two-season deal with the Super Rugby Pacific champions, the Hurricanes.
The powerful, former Moana Pasifika No.8 saw his form rewarded with a surprise call-up for the All Blacks tour of South Africa, where he played in the midweek matches against the Sharks and Lions.
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The 22-year-old was left without a contract when Moana went into liquidation in June, placing doubt over his rugby future in New Zealand.
"I'm grateful for the opportunity to represent the Hurricanes," said Ta'eiloa.
"It's exciting to be part of such a proud region and I can't wait to get started. Malo."
Auckland-born Ta'eiloa attended Otago Boys' High School and made his NPC debut for Southland in 2023.
The 22-year-old scored 11 tries in 25 appearances across two seasons for Moana, becoming the team's first player to debut for the All Blacks.
Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said he's excited about the qualities Ta'eiloa will bring.
"The first time I saw him play was when he was in South Africa with the New Zealand under-19 side three or four years ago. His destructive power both in the tackle and in the ball-carry was obvious," Laidlaw said.
"To be selected by the All Blacks to go to South Africa this year shows what potential he's got. We really look forward to working with him and helping him fulfil that potential over the next few years."
The Huirricanes have recently recruited halfback Brynn Hall, Hawke's Bay lock Hunter Morrison and prop Rohan Wingham.
